It’s time to celebrate National Burrito Day—one of the tastiest holidays of the year! Every first Thursday of April, burrito lovers across the country come together to enjoy this beloved, flavor-packed favorite.
In this post, I’ll share a little burrito history, some personal memories, and a plant-based recipe that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
If you’re looking for an easy way to enjoy National Burrito Day with heart-healthy ingredients and bold, satisfying flavor, you’re in the right place.
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Burrito Lovers, Rejoice—It’s National Burrito Day!
Happy National Burrito Day, friends! Today, April 3rd, 2025, is the perfect excuse to wrap yourself in a warm tortilla of joy and dive into something delicious. Burritos have always been a comfort food that makes any day feel a little more fun.
Remember those days when we’d grab those giant foil-wrapped burritos from the local spot? We’d all sit around the table, unwrapping them like presents. Beans would spill out, salsa would drip, and someone always ended up with rice in their lap. It was messy and loud but oh-so-perfect. Those memories still warm my heart.
Today, I’ve got something special to share. It’s a plant-based spin on that classic burrito love. Get ready for a flavor-packed recipe that’s totally vegan, deeply satisfying, and kind to your body. Let’s make this National Burrito Day one to remember!
From Little Donkey to Big Flavor: A Burrito Backstory
Let’s take a quick stroll down burrito memory lane. The burrito we all know and love has roots deep in Mexican tradition. It started as a simple rolled tortilla filled with beans or meat—easy to carry and packed with nourishment.
The word burrito actually means “little donkey” in Spanish. Some say it got the name because the rolled shape reminded people of the bedroll’s donkeys carried on their backs. While the exact origin story might be up for debate, isn’t that a charming way to think about our beloved burrito?
Fast-forward to the early 1900s, when burritos crossed the border into California. By the 1930s, restaurants were serving their own versions. And by the 1950s, burritos had made their way into hearts—and freezers—all across the U.S. From humble beginnings to a national favorite, it’s no wonder we celebrate them today!
Burritos: The Comfort Food That Loves You Back
There’s just something magical about a burrito. It’s warm, satisfying, and always ready to show up for you—like a food hug wrapped in a tortilla. Burritos are one of the easiest meals to make your own. Want it spicy? Add heat. Craving something creamy? Toss in avocado. Burritos don’t judge.
And when you go plant-based, the possibilities only get better. Fresh veggies, hearty beans, flavorful spices—they all come together in a way that feels indulgent but nourishes your body.
Here are six reasons burritos totally deserve their own holiday:
- Endlessly Customizable – You can fill a burrito with just about anything and still end up with something delicious.
- Plant-Based Power – Beans, rice, veggies, and herbs offer protein, fiber, and loads of flavor without the heaviness.
- Comfort in Every Bite – That warm tortilla and melty filling? Instant feel-good food.
- Kind to the Planet – Choosing plant-based ingredients lowers your environmental impact. A small choice makes a big difference.
- Brain and Body Boosting – Whole-food ingredients help with energy, digestion, and mental clarity.
- Perfect for Sharing – Burritos bring people together. They’re easy to serve, fun to make, and always a crowd-pleaser.
There’s truly no wrong way to enjoy a burrito. I’ve got a plant-based recipe coming up that checks all the boxes.
Let’s Roll: A Burrito Worth Celebrating
Get excited, friends—because this burrito is everything. It’s hearty, zesty, and packed with flavor in every bite. We’re talking refried pinto beans, green chiles, and bright cilantro rice, all wrapped up in a soft, warm tortilla.
This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prep for the week, or sharing with friends. You can even double the batch and freeze a few for those busy days when you want something satisfying now. Plant-based eating has never tasted this good.
Refried Pinto & Green Chile Burrito with Cilantro Rice
Ingredients
For the Burrito Filling:
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 can (15-oz) pinto beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4-oz) diced green chiles mild or hot
- ¼ cup vegetable broth or water
- salt and pepper to taste
- pinch of chili flakes for heat optional
For the Cilantro Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or brown for a heartier twist
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
- juice of ½ lime
Assembly:
- 4 large tortillas 10-12 inch burrito-size
- 1 ripe avocado sliced
- romaine or iceberg lettuce shredded
- salsa or Pico de Gallo optional
- vegan sour cream
Instructions
- Make the Rice: In a medium pot, combine rice, water (or broth), olive oil, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (or according to package instructions).
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Set aside.
- Prepare the Refried Pinto & Green Chile Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add pinto beans, green chiles, and vegetable broth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, mashing some of the beans with the back of a spoon to create a creamy texture. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
- Assemble the Burritos: Warm the tortillas (either in a dry skillet or microwave under a damp paper towel).
- Layer each with cilantro rice, refried bean mixture, avocado slices, lettuce, and any extras like salsa or vegan sour cream.
- Roll into burritos—fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom.
- For extra flair, sear seam-side down in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes to crisp it up.
Nutrition
Sides, Sips, and Good Company
You’ve got your burrito rolled and ready—now let’s level up the experience. Pairing it with the right side or drink can take your burrito night from “yum” to “can we do this every week?”
Here are a few tasty ideas to round out your National Burrito Day celebration:
- Chips and guac – Classic, crunchy, and creamy. You can never go wrong here.
- Margarita mocktail – Lime, a splash of orange juice, a salted rim… no alcohol needed to feel festive!
- Cozy cup of tea – Herbal teas like mint or ginger pair beautifully with savory spice.
- Burrito night with friends – Set up a toppings bar and let everyone build their own. Easy and fun!
- Simple solo dinner – Light a candle, put on your favorite playlist, and treat yourself. You’ve earned it.
- Leftover love – Save an extra burrito or two in the fridge. They reheat like a dream!
There’s no wrong way to enjoy this meal. Just good food, good vibes, and maybe a few happy dance moves in the kitchen.
That’s a Wrap—Now It’s Your Turn!
I hope this post has inspired you to celebrate National Burrito Day in the tastiest way possible. You’ve got everything you need for a fun, flavorful day. Try this plant-based burrito recipe at home, head to your favorite local spot, or invite a few friends for a burrito-making party. There’s joy in every option.
No matter how you celebrate, I’d love to see it! Snap a photo of your creation, your setup, or even your burrito-loving crew, and share it with me. Tag me online or drop a comment—I truly love hearing from you. Let’s make this National Burrito Day a celebration to remember!
Here’s to full bellies, happy hearts, and burritos that bring people together. Happy National Burrito Day, my friends! May your day be filled with delicious bites and joyful moments. Let’s keep the burrito love alive!
Expect Miracles!
Until next time,
Julene
